At one time gods were needed to explain the world. Why does the sun go away and then come back? Apollo drives it across the sky. Unseen, unprovable, almighty beings. We've phased them out as science has explained phenomena. The main reason modern theists still cling to their one god of choice is that they have not yet been able to conquer fear of death and the chaotic nature of the Universe. Once you embrace that, you have no need of a god.

Heinrich Heine put it best when he said "In dark ages people are best guided by religion, as in a pitch-black night a blind man is the best guide; he knows the roads and paths better than a man who can see. When daylight comes, however, it is foolish to use blind, old men as guides."

I am absolutely certain that I do not know, but it might be possible to find out. - Christopher Hitchens

At one time gods were needed to explain the world. Why does the sun go away and then come back? Apollo drives it across the sky. Unseen, unprovable, almighty beings. We've phased them out as science has explained phenomena. The main reason modern theists still cling to their one god of choice is that they have not yet been able to conquer fear of death and the chaotic nature of the Universe. Once you embrace that, you have no need of a god.

It may have been the case but it was shitty explanation as it did nothing to really explain nature of said phenomenons.

As for main reason I think it is indoctrination rather than fear. I think that wihtout brainwashing people could overcome fear of death especially considering that religion could be cause of this fear, i.e. hell.

The first revolt is against the supreme tyranny of theology, of the phantom of God. As long as we have a master in heaven, we will be slaves on earth.

At one time gods were needed to explain the world. Why does the sun go away and then come back? Apollo drives it across the sky. Unseen, unprovable, almighty beings. We've phased them out as science has explained phenomena. The main reason modern theists still cling to their one god of choice is that they have not yet been able to conquer fear of death and the chaotic nature of the Universe. Once you embrace that, you have no need of a god.

It may have been the case but it was shitty explanation as it did nothing to really explain nature of said phenomenons.

As for main reason I think it is indoctrination rather than fear. I think that wihtout brainwashing people could overcome fear of death especially considering that religion could be cause of this fear, i.e. hell.

I agree actually. But that still should be no excuse to not be able to break free from religion.

I am absolutely certain that I do not know, but it might be possible to find out. - Christopher Hitchens

(13-08-2015 10:40 AM)Szuchow Wrote: It may have been the case but it was shitty explanation as it did nothing to really explain nature of said phenomenons.

As for main reason I think it is indoctrination rather than fear. I think that wihtout brainwashing people could overcome fear of death especially considering that religion could be cause of this fear, i.e. hell.

I agree actually. But that still should be no excuse to not be able to break free from religion.

Breaking the spell isn't easy, church had much time to hone it's skill in telling bullshit that people are willing to believe in. Also consider poverty, religion best friend.

The first revolt is against the supreme tyranny of theology, of the phantom of God. As long as we have a master in heaven, we will be slaves on earth.